Music for the People!

The newly established Lachlan Community Orchestra has received a boost after Parkes Shire Council agreed to contribute $1500 towards operating costs in its first year.

At its meeting last week, council decided that future funding for the orchestra would be reviewed on an annual basis. Council would not agree to the request for funding until they had a chance to hear first-hand the background. Mr Andrew Baker, Director of the Lachlan Division of the Mitchell Conservatorium lodged the application with Council and it was tabled at a meeting in Peak Hill on March 5.

Trundle resident Paul Heves (cello) with cello tutor William Tu

Council however, felt it was important for Mr Baker to address them before a decision was made. This he did last Tuesday, where he pointed out that $1500 was also being requested from Forbes Shire Council, along with a funding request of $1100 to Northparkes Mines. With the orchestra in its infancy, the initial financial burden has fallen on the Mitchell Conservatorium.

However, to advance the orchestra’s future sustainability, Mr Baker prepared a budget which he presented to Council. Membership currently stands at 30 who all contribute the minimal of $10 per school term to participate.

Mr Baker said the philosophy behind the community-based orchestra was one of inclusiveness.

“Players are not auditioned or pre-selected in any way and may join the group at any stage of their musical journey,” he said.

He pointed out that members ranged in age from five to 82. The orchestra currently rehearses in the hall at the Assemblies of God Church after school on a Tuesday afternoon. “The orchestra is very grateful to pastor Andrew Taggart for providing the hall at no cost which has allowed us to begin rehearsals before acquiring any funding.”

It was also pointed out that rehearsals could also be shared between Parkes and Forbes, depending on the needs of the players. The inaugural performance of the LRCO is planned to take place in the middle of the year.

Cr Kenny McGrath congratulated Mr Baker on his presentation.

“I was the bloke who knocked you back at the meeting in Peak Hill, but your presentation here today was terrific,” Cr McGrath said. “I can now see how it will benefit all the interested people across the shire.” Councillors agreed, later voting unanimously to support the orchestra to the tune of $1500 and to review funding support each financial year.